The impossible task: building popular support for immigration

Immigration is one of the most persistent topics in British political discourse. Long-term trends show consistently high levels of net migration, predominantly from outside of Europe to the UK. The political establishment is keen to support public opinion which shows a desire for a reduction in the numbers of immigrants.

Boris Johnson speaking at a vote leave rally in Newcastle Upon Tyne in April 2016 Photograph | Stuart Boulton/Shutterstock

Even when shielding migrants from denigration or criticising arbitrary targets, few politicians deny that immigration has some negative features, including the depression of wages, pressure on public services and the abuse of benefits. Criticisms are aimed at those from developing nations, where the majority of migrants are from. However, the economics suggest that public perceptions are inaccurate.

In fact, every great hub of economic activity begins with migrants. In the long-run, migration can stimulate economic progress. Larger populations have a positive impact on demand and labour supply. As they enter the workforce, migrant populations purchase domestic goods and services, creating employment opportunities. Migrants pay taxes, which goes towards improving public services, which now benefit from economies of scale. Businesses see a large pool of potential labourers and consumers within a geographically convenient location.

The above scenario might seem a little idyllic, but it better reflects the dynamic nature of national economies today. Resources are not limited by population size, but by the size of the economy and wealth distribution within. Reducing the number of migrants won’t create more school places or hospital beds, as it will also reduce the tax base. Furthermore, migrant populations help public services benefit from economies of scale, by spreading large fixed costs, such as the cost of providing power to a school or hospital, over a greater number of people.

Of course, from a development perspective we must be wary of the damage that migration might be doing to the countries and economy which migrants have left. Transferring payments back to relatives and friends helps to divert much-needed capital to these areas, but the prospect of human capital flight can make it harder for countries on the pathway to development.

If the UK is serious about reducing the number of migrants, then acting more vigorously to promote global economic development is a potential solution. Transferring resources to stimulate the development of infrastructure in the developing world and fostering the economic and productivity growth necessary for higher incomes and better opportunities would deter international migration flows. Unfortunately, international aid is becoming another target for contempt amongst the electorate.

Immigration policy should not be built by establishing arbitrary migrant limits or through pandering to unfounded accusations. It should ensure that the wealth migration creates is distributed effectively so that any strains associated with migration are eliminated. It should be compounded with a strategic international development strategy, which helps lay the foundations of economic prosperity across the developing world, so those countries are better able to provide the opportunities and living standards that all humans are entitled to.